Removable Foldable Stair Assembly With Nested Stabilizing Tubes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stowable stair assemblies are bulky due to exterior mounting of telescoping stabilizer tubes, which interferes with step treads and requires non-movable piano hinges, making removal for maintenance or replacement difficult.
Innovation Solution
Telescoping stabilizing tubes are discreetly mounted inside a thin stringer plate, allowing wider step treads and a removable hinge assembly for easy installation and removal, enabling the stair assembly to be completely detached from both stowed and deployed positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If telescoping stabilizer tubes are mounted exterior to the step treads and side/stringer plates, then the stabilizing function is achieved, but the stringer assemblies become elongated and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping stabilizer tubes are mounted inside the stringer plates, nesting the stabilizing mechanism within the existing structure rather than adding external bulk. The tubes extend through openings in the stringer plates, allowing the stabilizing function to be achieved while maintaining a compact overall assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizer tubes are positioned to extend vertically through the stringer plates rather than horizontally outward, changing the dimension in which the stabilizing elements project. This allows the stabilizing function to be achieved without increasing the horizontal footprint or overall volume of the stringer assembly.
2Volume of moving object
If telescoping stabilizer tubes are mounted interior to the stringer plates, then the overall assembly size is reduced, but a thicker or bulkier stringer plate is required to accommodate the tubes
Solution Approach 1:
The stringer plate is segmented with openings that allow the stabilizer tubes to pass through, rather than requiring the entire plate to be thick enough to contain the tubes. This segmentation approach allows for thin stringer plates while still accommodating the stabilizing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the stringer plate contain the stabilizer tubes within its thickness, the design inverts the approach by having the tubes pass through openings in the plate. This reversal allows the plate to remain thin while still providing structural support and housing for the stabilizing mechanism.
3Strength
If a non-movable piano hinge design is used, then the hinge provides structural support, but the stair assembly cannot be removed for repair, cleaning, replacement or maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge design transitions from a static, fixed connection to a dynamic, removable connection. The spring-loaded pin allows the hinge to function as a permanent attachment during normal use but can be easily disassembled when maintenance or replacement is needed, providing both structural strength and ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded pin mechanism allows for easy self-service removal and installation of the stair assembly without requiring specialized tools or complex disassembly procedures. The spring automatically provides the force needed to eject the pin when pressure is applied to the release tab.
4Ease of repair
If the stair assembly is designed to be completely removable, then maintenance and replacement become easy, but the structural connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded pin creates a dynamic connection that is strong and rigid during normal use but can be easily released when needed. The spring maintains constant pressure on the pin to ensure a secure connection, while the release tab allows for quick disengagement, balancing structural strength with ease of maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge design incorporates preliminary action by pre-loading the pin with spring pressure to ensure a strong structural connection before use. The spring is compressed during assembly to provide immediate structural support, and the same spring mechanism is later used to facilitate easy removal when maintenance is needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a lighter, leaner stair assembly with wider step treads and reduced trip hazards, facilitating easy maintenance and installation while allowing complete removal for access in tight spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a spring member positioned between each of the pairs of hinge channels. In this context, the spring member may include a fixed end that is fixed to the pin member
Data Source
AI summary
A stowable stair assembly with step treads connected between stair stringers includes stabilizing legs positioned within a width of the treads and behind the treads. A removable hinge assembly facilitates installation of the stair assembly as well as access to the stair assembly.